How Do You Spell GHAZAL?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈe͡ɪzə͡l] (IPA)

The word "ghazal" is a form of Persian poetry that originated in Arabia. It is spelled with the letters "gh" which is pronounced as a voiced velar fricative /ɣ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This sound is made by vibrating the vocal cords while narrowing the space at the back of the throat. The "z" is pronounced as an unvoiced postalveolar fricative /ʒ/, made by touching the blade of the tongue to the roof of the mouth. Finally, the "al" is pronounced as a schwa /ə/ sound.

GHAZAL Meaning and Definition

1. A ghazal is a poetic form that originated in Arabic literature and later became popular in Persian and Urdu poetry. It consists of rhyming couplets, known as "sher," and typically has a minimum of five and a maximum of fifteen couplets. Each couplet is an independent unit in itself and often explores a different theme within the overarching subject or mood of the ghazal.

   The ghazal is characterized by its unique rhyme scheme and refrain. The first couplet sets the rhyme scheme for the entire poem, with both lines ending in the same word or phrase, called the "radif." The radif is repeated at the end of the second line of each subsequent couplet. Additionally, each sher in a ghazal should be complete and self-contained, allowing the poet to use different imagery, metaphors, or expressions in each couplet.

   Traditionally, ghazals revolve around themes of love, longing, and loss. They often explore the complexities of human emotions and the yearning for a beloved. Many ghazals are also known for their imagery, symbolism, and wordplay.

   Ghazals have been widely celebrated for their lyrical beauty and have influenced various cultures around the world. They have been translated into different languages, including English, while maintaining their distinct structure and style. The ghazal's ability to convey deep emotions within concise couplets has made it a favored form of expression for many renowned poets throughout history, further cementing its significance in the realm of poetic traditions.

Etymology of GHAZAL

The word "Ghazal" originated from the Arabic language. It derives from the Arabic word "ghazala", which means "to converse with women" or "to talk amorously to women". The term later evolved to refer to a specific genre of poetry. The earliest known usage of the word in the context of poetry dates back to the 7th century Arabian Peninsula. From there, it spread to various cultures and languages, including Persian, Turkish, Urdu, and others, where it became a prominent form of lyrical and romantic poetry.

Plural form of GHAZAL is GHAZALS